System for preparing a beverage

ABSTRACT

A system for preparing a quantity of beverage suitable for consumption, including an apparatus including a first brew chamber part and a second brew chamber part forming a brew chamber for selectively holding one of a first and second exchangeable capsules, the second exchangeable capsule having a larger diameter than the first exchangeable capsule, wherein the second brew chamber part includes a central portion and a peripheral portion, wherein the peripheral portion includes a second sealing member arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement between the peripheral portion and the first brew chamber part when forming the brew chamber for holding the second exchangeable capsule.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of International Application No.PCT/NL2017/050510 filed Aug. 3, 2017, which claims the benefit of andpriority to Netherlands Patent Application No. NL 2017279 filed Aug. 3,2016, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

The invention generally relates to a system for preparing a beverage.The invention also relates to an apparatus for preparing a beverage.More specifically the invention relates to a system for preparing abeverage using a capsule.

Systems and apparatus for preparing a beverage using a capsule aregenerally known. The apparatus can be configured to receive a singletype of capsule, but may also be arranged for receiving multiple typesof capsules, for example for preparing different kinds of beverages, forexample coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or different variants of coffee. Thedifferent capsules may not all have the same shape and/or size. Anapparatus arranged for dealing with a plurality of different capsulesmay thus quickly become complicated and large in its structure, thusincreasing its price. It may also become rather difficult to handle andto clean.

It is an object of the present invention to alleviate one or more of theabove-mentioned problems. In particular, it is an aim of the inventionto provide a compact system and apparatus for preparing a beverage usinga capsule which is able to handle one of a plurality of capsules ofdifferent sizes. It is a further object of the invention to provide asystem and apparatus for preparing a beverage using a capsule which isable to function equally well with each of a plurality of capsules ofdifferent sizes.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a systemcharacterized by the features of claim 1. In particular, the system forpreparing a quantity of beverage suitable for consumption comprises anapparatus including a first brew chamber part and a second brew chamberpart forming a brew chamber for selectively holding one of a first andsecond exchangeable capsules, the second exchangeable capsule having alarger diameter than the first exchangeable capsule. The apparatus alsoincludes a fluid dispensing device for supplying an amount of fluid,such as water, under pressure to the first brew chamber part, the firstbrew chamber part having a cavity for selectively holding one of thefirst and second exchangeable capsules. The cavity of the first brewchamber part can be a predetermined cavity arranged for holding thefirst or second capsule. The cavity can have an invariable shape forholding the first or second capsule. The first brew chamber part can bearranged for holding the first or second capsule without changing aconfiguration of the first brew chamber part. The first brew chamberpart can be a monolithic part. The system further includes the secondexchangeable capsule. The second brew chamber part includes a centralportion and a peripheral portion, the central portion being movable intoa first position for forming the brew chamber for holding the firstexchangeable capsule and a second position forming the brew chamber forholding the second exchangeable capsule. Thanks to the movable centralportion it is possible to adapt the brew chamber for holding one of afirst and second capsule, the second exchangeable capsule having alarger diameter than the first exchangeable capsule. The central portionmay include an optional first sealing member arranged for providing afluid sealing engagement between the central portion and the peripheralportion when forming the brew chamber for holding the secondexchangeable capsule, and the peripheral portion can include an optionalsecond sealing member arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagementbetween the peripheral portion and the first brew chamber part whenforming the brew chamber for holding the second exchangeable capsule.Said first sealing member provides a seal against a prepared beverageexiting the capsule via an exit area. In one embodiment, the firstsealing member may be in direct sealing contact with a part of theperipheral portion protruding between the first sealing member and thesecond sealing member when forming the brew chamber for holding thesecond capsule. In another embodiment, the first sealing member may bein direct sealing contact with the second sealing member included in theperipheral portion 34. Said second sealing member may provide a seal forwater being present in the cavity outside the capsule. In this way,brewing fluid injected into the brew chamber is prevented from bypassingaround the outside of the capsule. The combination of these two sealingmembers allows a good functioning of the system, independently of thechoice of one of the first and second exchangeable capsule. In anadvantageous embodiment of the invention, the first sealing member maybe arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement between the centralportion and the second exchangeable capsule when forming the brewchamber for holding the second exchangeable capsule. Hence, the firstsealing member can provide a sealing engagement between the centralportion and the second exchangeable capsule against beverage exiting thecapsule via the exit area of the second exchangeable capsule.

In a preferred embodiment, the second sealing member may be arranged forproviding a fluid sealing engagement between the peripheral portion andthe second exchangeable capsule when forming the brew chamber for thesecond exchangeable capsule holding the second exchangeable capsule.This can provide a sealing or non-sealing engagement between theperipheral portion and the capsule against brewing fluid and/or beverageexiting the capsule via the exit area of the second capsule.

In a more preferred embodiment, a side of a rim of the secondexchangeable capsule facing away from a cup-shaped body of the secondexchangeable capsule is pressed against the second sealing member by asecond abutment surface of the first brew chamber part, thus providingan efficient and easy-to-build sealing or non-sealing engagement betweenthe peripheral portion of the second brew chamber part and the secondcapsule.

In an alternative embodiment, or additionally to previous embodiments,the first brew chamber part may be provided with a third sealing memberarranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement between the first brewchamber part and a side of a rim of the second exchangeable capsulefacing towards a cup-shaped body of the second exchangeable capsule,thus providing an alternative sealing engagement between the first brewchamber part and the second brew chamber part. In combination with saidsecond sealing member, said third sealing member may reduce the sealingeffort by the second sealing member.

Additionally or alternatively, the first sealing member may be arrangedto provide a fluid sealing engagement between the central portion andthe first brew chamber part when forming the brew chamber for the firstexchangeable capsule. Advantageously, the first sealing member may bearranged to provide a self-reinforcing fluid sealing engagement betweenthe central portion and the first brew chamber part under the effect offluid pressure in the brew chamber when forming the brew chamber for thefirst exchangeable capsule. Brewing fluid may be injected into the brewchamber under relatively high pressure, which may deform said firstsealing member in such a way that the fluid sealing engagement betweenthe central portion and the first brew chamber part is reinforced. Thefirst sealing member may take different shapes to reach saidself-reinforcing sealing effect. It is for example preferred that thefirst sealing member may include a resilient lip arranged to provide aself-reinforcing sealing engagement between the central portion and thefirst brew chamber part under the effect of fluid pressure in the brewchamber when forming the brew chamber for the first exchangeablecapsule. The resiliency of said lip may for example be higher than theresiliency of other parts of said sealing member. Other shapes of saidfirst sealing member are of course also possible.

Additionally or alternatively, the first sealing member can be arrangedto provide a self-reinforcing sealing engagement between the centralportion and the peripheral portion when forming the brew chamber forholding the second exchangeable capsule. The second sealing member maythen for example allow passage of liquid, for example water, towards thefirst sealing member to cause the self-reinforcing sealing. Theself-reinforcing sealing can be provided by the resilient lip.

In analogy with the first sealing member, it is preferred that also thesecond sealing member is arranged to provide a self-reinforcing fluidsealing engagement between the peripheral portion and the first brewchamber part under the effect of fluid pressure in the brew chamber whenforming the brew chamber for the second exchangeable capsule. Thereto,the second sealing member may include a resilient lip arranged toprovide a self-reinforcing sealing engagement between the peripheralportion and the first brew chamber part under the effect of fluidpressure in the brew chamber. The resilient lip of the second sealingmember need not have the same resiliency or stiffness as of the firstsealing member, nor does the lip of the second sealing member need tohave the same shape. The resilient lip is preferably adapted to thefunction of the sealing member and for example to the fluid pressure itmay be exposed to. The resilient lip of the second sealing member mayfor example be longer than that of the first sealing member, or forexample shorter, thicker or thinner.

Alternatively, or additionally, the second exchangeable capsule may beprovided with a sealing member. Said sealing member may for example belocated on a cup-shaped body of the second capsule, and may be arrangedfor providing a sealing engagement between said cup-shaped body of thesecond capsule and the first brew chamber part, in order to preventbrewing fluid injected into the capsule from bypassing around theoutside of the capsule.

In another alternative embodiment, a rim of the second exchangeablecapsule may also be provided with a sealing member.

It may be preferred that a side of a rim of the second exchangeablecapsule facing away from a cup-shaped body of the second exchangeablecapsule is provided with a sealing member. Such a sealing member mayprovide a sealing engagement between a central and/or peripheral portionof the second brew chamber part and the second capsule.

It might also be preferred that a side of a rim of the secondexchangeable capsule facing towards a cup-shaped body of the secondexchangeable capsule is provided with a sealing member. In that case,such a sealing member might be arranged to provide a sealing engagementbetween the capsule and the first brew chamber part. One or more sealingmembers on the second exchangeable capsule, for example on a capsule'slid, may cooperate with, or replace, one or more sealing members of thesystem according to the invention.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the system may alsoinclude the first exchangeable capsule. Advantageously, the firstsealing member can be arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagementbetween the central portion and the first brewing chamber part whenforming the brew chamber for holding the first exchangeable capsule.This provides a seal for water being present in the cavity outside thecapsule. In this way, brewing fluid injected into the brew chamber isprevented from bypassing around the outside of the capsule.

In a preferred embodiment, the first sealing member can also be arrangedfor providing a fluid sealing engagement between the central portion andthe first exchangeable capsule when forming the brew chamber for holdingthe first exchangeable capsule. In this way, the first sealing membercan provide a sealing engagement between the central portion and thefirst capsule against a prepared beverage exiting the capsule via anexit area on a lid of the capsule.

In a more preferred embodiment, a side of a rim of the firstexchangeable capsule facing away from a cup-shaped body of the firstexchangeable capsule is pressed against the first sealing member by afirst abutment surface of the first brew chamber part, thus providing anefficient and easy-to-build sealing engagement between the centralportion of the second brew chamber part and the first capsule.

In an alternative embodiment, or additionally to previous embodiments,the first brew chamber part may be provided with a fourth sealing memberarranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement between the first brewchamber part and a side of a rim of the first exchangeable capsulefacing towards a cup-shaped body of the first exchangeable capsule, thusproviding an alternative sealing engagement between the central portionof the second brew chamber part and the first capsule. In combinationwith said first sealing member, said fourth sealing member may reducethe sealing effort by the first sealing member.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided asystem for preparing a quantity of beverage suitable for consumptioncharacterized by the features of claim 19, which system can provide oneor more of the above-mentioned advantages.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided anapparatus for preparing a quantity of beverage suitable for consumptioncharacterized by the features of claim 20, which apparatus can provideone or more of the above-mentioned advantages.

According to an aspect is provided a method for preparing a quantity ofbeverage suitable for consumption as described herein.

According to an aspect is provided a capsule, and a set of a first andsecond capsule as described herein.

It will be appreciated that any of the embodiments, aspects, featuresand options described in view of the system apply equally to theapparatus, capsules and method. It will also be clear that any one ormore of the above embodiments, aspects, features and options can becombined.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will further be elucidated on the basis of exemplaryembodiments which are represented in a drawing. The exemplaryembodiments are given by way of non-limitative illustration. It is notedthat the figures are only schematic representations of embodiments ofthe invention that are given by way of non-limiting example.

In the drawing:

FIGS. 1A and 1B show schematic representations of a system;

FIG. 2A shows a perspective side view of an apparatus in half-closedstate;

FIG. 2B shows a perspective side view of an apparatus in fully closedstate;

FIGS. 3A and 3B show the functioning of the locking mechanism of thesystem as shown in FIG. 1A when the cavity holds the first capsule;

FIGS. 4A and 4B show the functioning of the locking mechanism of thesystem as shown in FIG. 1B when the cavity holds the second capsule;

FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C show the functioning of the arresting ring of thesystem as shown in FIG. 1A when the cavity holds the first capsule;

FIGS. 6A and 6B show the first capsule in the brew chamber duringextraction and the second capsule in the brew chamber during extraction,respectively;

FIGS. 7A and 7B show the first brew chamber part swiveled downwards forejection of the used first and second capsule, respectively, from thecavity under the effect of gravity;

FIGS. 8A and 8B show an example of a first capsule and second capsule,respectively, inserted in the brew chamber formed by the first brewchamber part and the second brew chamber part;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B show schematic cross sectional views of a system 1 forpreparing a beverage. The system includes an apparatus 2 and anexchangeable capsule. Here the system 1 is arranged for cooperating witha first capsule 4A and a second capsule 4B. The apparatus 2 shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B is one and the same apparatus. The apparatus 2 isarranged for selectively cooperating with either the first capsule 4A(see FIG. 1A) or the second capsule 4B (see FIG. 1B). It will beappreciated that the system 1 can include the apparatus 2, the firstcapsule 4A and the second capsule 4B.

The first and second capsules 4A, 4B are of a different type. In thisexample, the second capsule 4B is larger than the first capsule 4A. Anaxial length LB of the second capsule 4B is larger than an axial lengthLA of the first capsule 4A. A diameter DB of the second capsule 4B is alarger than a diameter DA of the first capsule 4A. Notwithstanding thedifferences, in this example the first and second capsules 4A, 4B aredesigned to make a similar visual impression. The first and secondcapsules 4A, 4B are designed to have a family look and feel. Here aratio of the axial length and diameter LA/DA of the first capsule 4A issubstantially the same as a ratio of the axial length and diameter LB/DBof the second capsule 4B. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio ofthe first and second capsules is identical within 20%, preferably within10%, e.g. identical.

In view of the similarity, both capsules 4A, 4B will now be describedsimultaneously. In this example, the capsules 4A, 4B both include acup-shaped body 6A, 6B. Here the cup-shaped body 6A, 6B includes abottom 8A 8B and a circumferential wall 10A, 10B. The bottom 8A, 8B andthe circumferential wall 10A, 10B can form a monolithic part. Thecapsules 4A, 4B both include a lid 12A, 12B. The lid 12A, 12B closes offan open end of the cup-shaped body 6A, 6B. The lid 12A, 12B includes anexit area 13A, 13B through which beverage can be drained from thecapsule as explained below. In this example the lid 12A, 12B isconnected to a flange-like rim 14A, 14B of the capsule 4A, 4B. Here therim 14A, 14B is an outwardly extending rim. The bottom 8A, 8B, thecircumferential wall 10A, 10B and the rim 14A, 14B can form a monolithicpart. Here the exit area 13A, 13B defines the area of the lid 12A, 12Bthrough which the beverage can potentially exit the capsule 4A, 4B.Hence, an area of the lid 12A, 12B sealed to the rim 14A, 14B does notconstitute part of the exit area 13A, 13B. In this example, the capsules4A, 4B are substantially rotation symmetric around an axis extendingfrom the bottom 8A, 8B to the lid 12A, 12B. The cup-shaped body 6A, 6Band the lid 12A, 12B enclose an inner space 16A, 16B of the capsule. Theinner space 16A, 16B includes a quantity of beverage ingredient, such asan extractable or soluble substance. The beverage ingredient can e.g. beroast and ground coffee, tea, or the like. The beverage ingredient canbe powdered coffee. The beverage ingredient can be a liquid. In view ofthe difference in size of the capsules 4A, 4B it will be appreciatedthat the second capsule 4B can include a larger quantity of beverageingredient than the first capsule 4A. In this example, the inner space16B of the second capsule 4B is about twice the inner space 16A of thefirst capsule 4A. For example, the first capsule 4A may include 4-8grams, e.g. about 6 grams, of ground coffee. For example, the secondcapsule 4B may include 8-16 grams, e.g. about 12 grams, of groundcoffee.

The cup-shaped body 6A, 6B can be manufactured from a metal foil, suchas aluminium foil, a plastics material, such as polypropylene orpolyethylene, or a combination thereof. The cup-shaped body 6A, 6B canbe manufactured by pressing, deep-drawing, vacuum forming, injectionmoulding or the like. The lid can be manufactured from a metal foil,such as aluminium foil, a plastics material, such as polypropylene orpolyethylene, or a combination thereof. In the example the capsules 4A,4B are so-called closed capsules. This indicates capsules that arehermetically closed prior to insertion into the apparatus. The closedcapsules can be opened by the apparatus as described below.Alternatively, non-sealed or refillable capsules could also be used.

The apparatus includes a first brew chamber part 18 and a second brewchamber part 20. The first and second brew chamber parts 18, 20 can beclosed against each other to form a brew chamber 22A, 22B (not shown inFIGS. 1A, 1B).

The first brew chamber part 18 includes a cavity 24. The cavity 24 isarranged for receiving the first or second capsule 4A, 4B. Here thecavity 24 of the first brew chamber part 18 is a predetermined cavity 24arranged for holding the first or second capsule 4A, 4B. Here the cavity24 has an invariable shape for holding the first or second capsule 4A,4B. Here the first brew chamber part 18 is arranged for holding thefirst or second capsule 4A, 4B without changing a configuration of thefirst brew chamber part 18. In this example the first brew chamber part18 is a monolithic part. In this example the first brew chamber part 18includes a first abutment surface 26. The first abutment surface ispositioned inside the cavity 24. Here the first abutment surface 26 is afirst generally annular abutment surface. The first generally annularabutment surface 26 can be continuously annular, or it may beinterrupted annular, such as comprising a plurality of segments along anannulus. The first abutment surface 26 may for example take the shape ofone or more, e.g. arched, ridges which protrude into cavity 24. Here thefirst abutment surface 26 provides the cavity 24 with a stepped shape.In this example the first brew chamber part 18 includes a secondabutment surface 28. The second abutment surface is positioned near theopen end of the cavity 24. Here the second abutment surface 28 is asecond generally annular abutment surface. The second generally annularabutment surface 28 can be continuously annular, or it may beinterrupted annular, such as comprising a plurality of segments along anannulus. The second abutment surface 28 may for example take the shapeof one or more, e.g. arched, ridges. It will be appreciated that thefirst abutment surface 26 and the second abutment surface 28 are spacedat a mutual distance in an axial direction of the first brew chamberpart 18. The first abutment surface 26 and the second abutment surfaceare positioned at a fixed spacing. The first abutment surface 26 and thesecond abutment surface are immobile relative to each other. Here, thefirst brew chamber part 18 includes an ejector 38. The ejector 38 canincludes a conical ring and/or and a resilient element 42, here ahelical spring. The first brew chamber part 18 includes piercing means44 for piercing the bottom of the capsule. Here the piercing meansincludes a plurality of knives, such as three knives.

The second brew chamber part 20 includes an extraction plate 30. In thisexample, the extraction plate 30 includes a central portion 32 and aperipheral portion 34. The central portion 32 is movable relative to theperipheral portion 34. Here the central portion 32 is movable in anaxial direction of the second brew chamber part 20.

The system 1 as described thus far can be used for preparing a beverageas follows. Further features of the system 1 will be explained along theway.

In the example of FIGS. 1A and 1B the apparatus 2 is in a state readyfor receiving a capsule. In FIGS. 1A and 1B the capsule 4A, 4B has justbeen inserted into the cavity of the first brew chamber part 18. Thefirst brew chamber part 18 is in an inclined position. The open end ofthe cavity 24 points upwards.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the first capsule 4A can fall into the cavity 24under the influence of gravity. Herein the rim 14A of the first capsule4A is guided by an inner surface 36 of the first brew chamber part 18.The bottom 8A of the first capsule 4A lowers into the cavity 24 until itabuts against the ejector 38. Here the bottom 8A of the first capsule 4Acenters on the ejector 38. It will be appreciated that the rim 14A ofthe first capsule 4A is positioned between the first abutment surface 26and the second abutment surface 28. The bottom 8A of the first capsule4A is not yet pierced in this state.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the second capsule 4B can also fall into the cavity24 under the influence of gravity. Herein the circumferential wall 10Bof the second capsule 4B is guided by an inner surface 46 of the firstbrew chamber part 18. The bottom 8B of the second capsule 4B lowers intothe cavity 24 until it abuts against the ejector 38. Here the bottom 8Bof the second capsule 4B centers on the ejector 38. It will beappreciated that the rim 14B of the second capsule 4B is positionedbeyond the second abutment surface 28 when seen from the piercing means44. The bottom 8B of the second capsule 4B is not yet pierced in thisstate.

Once the capsule 4A, 4B is inserted into the cavity 24 as shown in FIGS.1A and 1B, the first brew chamber part 18 can be moved towards thesecond brew chamber part 20 for closing the brew chamber around thecapsule 4A, 4B. The first brew chamber part 18 is guided in a frame 48of the apparatus.

In this example the first brew chamber part 18 includes first bosses 50and second bosses 52 as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The first bosses 50are guided in a first groove 54 of the frame 48. The second bosses 52are guided in a second groove 56 of the frame 48. It will be appreciatedthat the bosses 50, 52 and grooves 54, 56 determine the path that willbe followed by the first brew chamber part 18. Here the first groove 54and the second groove 56 are provided in a side wall 57 of the frame 48.The first groove 54 extends into the side wall 57 to a first depth. Thesecond groove 56 extends into the side wall to a second depth. Thesecond depth is larger than the first depth. The first boss 50 has alarger diameter than the second boss 52. The first groove 54 has alarger width than the second groove 56. The width of the first groove 54corresponds to the diameter of the first boss 50. The width of thesecond groove 56 corresponds to the width of the second boss 52. It willbe appreciated that the first groove 54 extends along a differenttrajectory than the second groove 56. The different widths and depths ofthe grooves allow the first and second bosses 50, 52 to follow differenttrajectories. This construction allows a very compact construction forguiding the first and second bosses 50, 52.

The apparatus 2 includes a lever 58. The lever can be actuated manuallyby a user. The lever is pivotally connected to the frame 48 around alever axis 60. The first brew chamber part 18 is connected to the frame48 via a knee joint 62. The knee joint 62 includes a push rod 64 and acrank 66. The push rod 64 is pivotally connected to the crank 66 at aknee axis 68. The crank 66 is pivotally connected to the frame 48 at acrank axis 70. The lever 58 is connected to the knee joint 62 foractuating the first brew chamber part 18 in motion. Here the lever 58 isconnected to the knee joint 62 through a lever link 74. The lever link74 is pivotally connected to the lever 58 at a lever link axis 76. Thelever link 74 is pivotally connected to the push rod 74 at a knee linkaxis 78.

An arresting ring 80 is arranged surrounding the first brew chamber part18. The arresting ring 80 is axially movable relative to the first brewchamber part 18. Here, the arresting ring 80 is guided by an externalsurface of the first brew chamber part 18. The arresting ring isconnected to the first brew chamber part via one or more resilientelements 82, here helical springs. The push rod is pivotally connectedto the arresting ring 80 at a push rod axis 72. Hence, here the kneejoint 62 is indirectly connected to the first brew chamber part 18, viz.via the arresting ring 80 and one or more resilient elements 82. Thefunction of the arresting ring will be set out below.

When the lever 58 is moved in a downward direction the knee joint 62will push the first brew chamber part 18 towards the second brew chamberpart 20. Simultaneously, due to the shape of the first and secondgrooves 54, 56, the first brew chamber part 18 will be rotated from theupwards inclined orientation into an aligned orientation in which anaxial direction of the first brew chamber part 18 is aligned with anaxial direction of the second brew chamber part 20.

As mentioned above, the apparatus 2 is arranged for selectivelycooperating with either the first capsule 4A or the second capsule 4B.Here, the system 1 is arranged for automatically adjusting the brewchamber depending on whether the first or the second capsule has beeninserted. This provides the advantage that no user input is required forselecting proper handling of the first or second capsule. Hence, therisk of errors is greatly reduced.

As mentioned, the second brew chamber part 20 includes an extractionplate 30 with a central portion 32 and a peripheral portion 34. Here thecentral portion 32 is movable in an axial direction of the second brewchamber part 20. The central portion 32 in this example includes a shaft32′ axially slidably movable with respect to the frame 48. The centralportion 32 is connected to the frame 48 via a resilient member 84, herea helical spring. The resilient member 84 biases the central portioninto a ready position in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The ready position is anextended position in this example. The central portion 32 can bepositioned in a first brewing position for cooperating with the firstcapsule 4A. The central portion can be positioned in a second brewingposition for cooperating with the second capsule 4B. In this example,the system 1 includes a locking mechanism 86 arranged for locking thecentral portion 32 in or near the first brewing position when the cavity24 holds the first capsule 4A.

The locking mechanism 86 includes a locker 88. Here the locker 88 isdesigned as a pivotable finger, pivotable around a pivoting axis 90. Thelocker 88 is biased into a position pivoted away from the shaft 32′. Thelocker could also be biased into any other suitable position. Thelocking mechanism 86 further includes a pusher 92. The pusher isslidably guided in a body 94 of the second brew part 20. The pusher 92is connected to the body 94 via a resilient member 96, here a helicalspring. The resilient member 96 biases the pusher in an extendedposition. The first brew chamber part 18 includes an actuator 98. Herethe actuator is formed by a frontal surface of the first brew chamberpart 18.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show functioning of the locking mechanism 86 when thecavity 24 holds the first capsule 4A. In this example, an outermost partof the first capsule 4A, here formed by the lid 12A, exit area 13Aand/or rim 14A, is positioned rearwardly, i.e. more towards the piercingmeans 44, relative to the actuator 98. As a result, when advancing thefirst capsule 4A towards the second brew chamber part 20, the actuator98 will touch the pusher 92 before the outermost part of the firstcapsule 4A will touch the central portion 32. The pusher is pushedagainst the biasing force of the resilient member 96. A lip 100 of thepusher 92 will slide along a sloping surface 102 of the locker 88,causing the locker 88 to pivot towards the shaft 32′. As a result, athumb 104 of the locker 88 is placed in a path of movement of part 106of the central portion 32 (see FIG. 3B). When the first capsule 4A isadvanced further towards the second brew chamber part 20 the firstcapsule 4A will abut against the central portion 32. This can cause thecentral portion to be pushed against the biasing force of the resilientmember 84. The pivoted locker 88 prevents travel of the central portionbeyond a position where the part 106 abuts against the thumb 104. Thisis herein defined as the first brewing position. Hence, the firstcapsule 4A is arranged for moving the central portion 32 from the readyposition to the first brewing position. The first capsule 4A is heldbetween the first and second brew chamber parts 18, 20 while brewing,wherein the central portion 32 is in the first brewing position.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show functioning of the locking mechanism 86 when thecavity 24 holds the second capsule 4B. In this example, an outermostpart of the second capsule 4B, here formed by the lid 12B, exit area 13Band/or rim 14B, is positioned forwardly, i.e. more towards the secondbrew chamber part 20, relative to the actuator 98. As a result, whenadvancing the second capsule 4B towards the second brew chamber part 20,the outermost part of the second capsule 4B will abut against thecentral portion 32 before the actuator 98 will touch the pusher 92. Thecentral portion 32 is pushed against the biasing force of the resilientmember 84 while the locker 88 is still pivoted away from the shaft 32′.As a result, the part 106 passed underneath the thumb 104. Only afterthe part 106 has passed the thumb 104 the pusher is pushed against thebiasing force of the resilient member 96 by the actuator 98. The lip 100of the pusher 92 will still slide along the sloping surface 102 of thelocker 88, causing the locker 88 to pivot towards the shaft 32′.However, the part 106 has already passed the thumb 104 at that moment.In this example, the second capsule 4B pushes the central portion 32 inabutment with the body 94. This is herein defined as the second brewingposition. Hence, the second capsule 4B is arranged for moving thecentral portion 32 from the ready position to the second brewingposition. The second capsule 4B is held between the first and secondbrew chamber parts 18, 20 while brewing, wherein the central portion 32is in the second brewing position.

Thus, the locking mechanism 86 is arranged for locking the centralportion 32 in the first extraction position when the cavity 24 holds thefirst capsule 4A. It is noted that the locking may be single-sided, viz.the locking mechanism may prevent the central portion 32 from beingmoved beyond the first extraction position when the cavity 24 holds thefirst capsule 4A. However movement of the central portion 32 from thefirst extraction position to the ready position may be not prevented.The locking unit 86 is arranged for selectively preventing the centralportion 32 being locked in or near the first brewing position when thesecond capsule 4B is included in the brew chamber. The locking unit 86is arranged for selectively allowing the central portion 32 being movedinto the second brewing position when the second capsule is included inthe brew chamber.

When comparing FIGS. 3A and 4A it will be appreciated that whileadvancing the first brew chamber part 18 towards the second brew chamberpart 20 the first capsule 4A is recessed further into the first brewchamber part than the second capsule 4B. Then the first lid 12A, exitarea 13A and/or rim 14B is recessed further into the first brew chamberpart 18 than the second lid 12B, exit area 13B and/or rim 14B.

When comparing FIGS. 3B and 4B it will be appreciated that when the brewchamber holds the first capsule 4A, the central portion 32 extends intothe cavity 24. The central portion 32 extends into the first brewchamber part 18 beyond a position where the lid 12B, exit area 13Band/or rim 14B of the second capsule 4B would have been, had the secondcapsule been included in the first brew chamber part 18.

As mentioned above, the knee joint 62 is indirectly connected to thefirst brew chamber part 18, viz. via the arresting ring 80 and one ormore resilient elements 82. FIGS. 5A-5C demonstrate functioning of thearresting ring 80.

In FIG. 5A the first capsule 4A abuts against the central portion 32with the central portion in the first brewing position. The arrestingring 80 is still in the rearward position. It will be appreciated thatthe lever 58 will not yet have reached its end position. The first brewchamber part 18 includes a protrusion 108. Here the protrusion 108 is asubstantially annular protrusion. The protrusion 108 extends outwardly.Here the protrusion 108 forms an outermost edge of the first brewchamber part 18. The second brew chamber part 20 includes a retainer110. Here the retainer 110 is designed as a circumferential ring ofretainer lips. The retainer 110 is pivotally connected to the body 94.Here the retainer 110 is resiliently pivotally connected to the body 94.The retainer 110 includes a tooth 112. The tooth here has a firstinclined surface 114 and a second inclined surface 116.

When lowering the lever 58, the arresting ring 80 will be advancedtowards the second brew chamber part 20. The one or more resilientelements 82 will push the first brew chamber part 18 ahead of thearresting ring 80 until the first brew chamber part abuts against thesecond brew chamber 20 part, e.g. with the capsule 4A, 4B clamped inbetween. During this movement, the protrusion 108 will advance againstthe first inclined surface 114. This causes the retainer 110 to bepivoted outwardly (see FIG. 5A). Further advancing causes the protrusion108 to pass beyond the second inclined surface 116, causing the retainer110 to pivot inwardly (see FIG. 5B). Further lowering of the lever 58first brew chamber part abuts against the second brew chamber 20 partwill cause the one or more resilient elements 82 to be compressed. As aresult, the arresting ring 80 will advance towards the second brewchamber part 20. Fully lowering the lever 58 will cause the arrestingring 80 to be interposed between the retainer 110 and a locking ring 118(see FIG. 5C). The arresting ring 80 surrounding the retainer 110prevents the retainer 110 from pivoting outwardly. Hence, the first brewchamber part is locked with respect to the second brew chamber part 20.The first brew chamber part is locked onto the second brew chamber part20.

The apparatus can include a fluid supply system for supplying a fluid,e.g. a liquid, such as hot water under pressure, to the first brewchamber part 18. When the brew chamber is pressurized with the fluid forbrewing a beverage, the first and second brew chamber parts 18, 20 willbe pushed away from each other by the fluid pressure. The retainer 110and arresting ring 80, and optionally the locking ring 118, will bearall, or part of, the force exerted by the fluid pressure. The arrestingring 80 interposed between the retainer 110 and the locking ring 118increases mechanical stability. The arresting ring 80 does not have tobear all forces exerted onto it by the retainer 110, since it can abutagainst the locking ring 118 and transmit at least part of the forces tothe locking ring 118. The locking ring 118 can be immobile, and hencecan easily be reinforced. Since the first brew chamber part is lockedonto the second brew chamber part 20 the frame 48 and the actuationmechanism, e.g. the knee joint, do not have to bear this force, or atleast a smaller part thereof. Hence the frame and/or the actuationmechanism can be designed weaker and/or cheaper.

Although the functioning of the arresting ring 80 has been shown inFIGS. 5A-5C with respect to the first capsule 4A, it will be appreciatedthat the arresting ring 80 can function identically with respect to thesecond capsule 4B. FIG. 6A shows the first capsule 4A in the brewchamber during extraction. FIG. 6B shows the second capsule 4B in thebrew chamber during extraction.

The piercing member 44 is arranged for piercing the bottom 8A, 8B of thecapsule 4A, 4B. As can also be seen in FIGS. 5A-5C, in this example thepiercing member 44 does not pierce the bottom 8A, 8B until the lid 12A,12B of the capsule 4A, 4B abuts against the central portion 32 in thefirst or second brewing position. Thereto, stiffnesses of the resilientelement 42 and the resilient member 84 can be chosen. In this example,the stiffness of the resilient element 42 is chosen to be larger thanthe stiffness of the resilient member 84. However, it will beappreciated that it is also possible that the stiffness of the resilientelement 42 is equal to the stiffness of the resilient member 84 or thatthe stiffness of the resilient element 42 is smaller than the stiffnessof the resilient member 84.

Once the capsule 4A, 4B is included in the brew chamber, and the bottom8A, 8B has been pierced, a fluid, in this example hot water underpressure, can be supplied to the brew chamber. Therefore it is desiredthat the brew chamber is leak tight. Thereto the central portion 32 isprovided with a first sealing member 120. The peripheral portion 34 isprovided with a second sealing member 122. The beverage preparationapparatus 2 is arranged for preparing a quantity of a beverage, suitablefor consumption, using either a first capsule 4A or a second capsule 4B.The quantity can be a predetermined quantity. The quantity can also be auser selectable, user settable, or user programmable quantity.

Referring to FIG. 3B sealing in view of the first capsule 4A isdescribed. The first sealing member 120 is arranged for providing afluid sealing engagement between the central portion 32 and the firstbrew chamber 18 part when forming the brew chamber for holding the firstcapsule 4A. The first sealing member 120 can be made of any resilientplastic or rubber, for example of silicon, having a hardness in a rangeof for example 50-70 Shore A. In this example, the first sealing member120 abuts against the first brew chamber part 18 when the first capsule4A is included in the brew chamber. This provides a seal for water beingpresent in the cavity 24 outside the capsule 4A. This way, brewing fluidinjected into the brew chamber 22A is prevented from bypassing aroundthe outside of the capsule 4A. In the example of FIG. 3B the firstsealing member 120 includes a resilient lip 121. The resilient lip 121is arranged to provide a self-reinforcing sealing engagement between thecentral portion 32 and the first brew chamber part 18 under the effectof fluid pressure in the brew chamber, which may for example be as highas 5-20 bar. Stiffness of the resilient lip 121 may therefore be higheror lower or the same as the stiffness of the rest of the first sealingmember 120. In this example the first sealing member 120 abuts againstthe rim 14A of the first capsule 4A. The rim 14A is pressed against thefirst sealing member 120 by the first abutment surface 26. This providesa sealing engagement between the central portion 32 and the capsule 4Aagainst beverage exiting the capsule 4A via the exit area 13A. It willbe appreciated that here the side of the rim 14A facing away from thecup-shaped body 6A is sealed against the second brew chamber part 20. Inorder to reinforce said sealing engagement, the first sealing member 120may include a small protruding ridge arranged to be received in acorresponding groove on the rim 14A facing away from the cup-shaped body6A of the first capsule 4A. The small protruding ridge may also bearranged to seal against a flat part on the rim 14A facing away from thecup-shaped body 6A of the first capsule 4A. Alternatively, oradditionally, the side of the rim 14A facing towards the cup-shaped body6A can be sealed against the first brew chamber part 18. Thereto anadditional seal can be provided on the first brew chamber part 18, e.g.on the first abutment surface 26, and/or on the capsule 4A, e.g. on therim 14A or on the cup-shaped body 6A. It will be clear that a seal onthe capsule may be additional to the seal between the first brew chamberpart 18 and the second brew chamber part 20. This may reduce the sealingeffort by the first sealing member 120.

Referring to FIG. 4B sealing in view of the second capsule 4B isdescribed. The second sealing member 122 is arranged for providing afluid sealing engagement between the peripheral portion 34 and the firstbrew chamber 18 part when forming the brew chamber for holding thesecond capsule 4B. The second sealing member 122 can be made of anyresilient plastic or rubber, for example of silicon, having a hardnessin a range of for example 50-70 Shore A. It will be clear to the personskilled in the art that the features of the second sealing, e.g. size,thickness, stiffness, or others, may, but need not, be the same as forthe first sealing member 120. In this example, the second sealing member122 abuts against the first brew chamber part 18 when the second capsule4B is included in the brew chamber. This provides a seal for water beingpresent in the cavity 24 outside the capsule 4B. In the example of FIG.4B the second sealing member 122 includes a resilient lip 123. Theresilient lip 123 is arranged to provide a self-reinforcing sealingengagement between the peripheral portion 34 and the first brew chamberpart 18 under the effect of fluid pressure in the brew chamber, whichmay for example be as high as 5-20 bar. Stiffness of the resilient lip123 may therefore be higher or lower or the same as the stiffness of therest of the second sealing member 122. Also the features of theresilient lip 123, as for example a length, may, but need not, be thesame as for the resilient lip 121 of the first sealing member 120. Inthis example the second sealing member 122 abuts against the rim 14B ofthe second capsule 4B. The rim 14B is pressed against the second sealingmember 122 by the second abutment surface 28. This may provide a sealingengagement between the peripheral portion 34 and the capsule 4B againstbeverage exiting the capsule 4B via the exit area 13B. In FIG. 4B thefirst sealing member 120 provides a sealing engagement between thecentral portion 32 and the peripheral portion 34 when forming the brewchamber for holding the second capsule 4B. This sealing engagementbetween the central portion 32 and the peripheral portion 34 can beself-reinforcing. Thereto the engagement between peripheral portion 34and the second capsule 4B may allow brewing fluid to pass to the firstsealing member 120. Hence, the first sealing member 120 provides asealing engagement between the central portion 32 and the capsule 4Bagainst beverage exiting the capsule 4B via the exit area 13B. In oneembodiment, the first sealing member 120 may be in direct sealingcontact with a part of the peripheral portion 34 protruding between thefirst sealing member 120 and the second sealing member 122 when formingthe brew chamber for holding the second capsule 4B. In an alternativeembodiment, the first sealing member 120 may be in direct sealingcontact with the second sealing member 122 included in the peripheralportion 34. It will be appreciated that here the side of the rim 14Bfacing away from the cup-shaped body 6B, which rim may or may not becovered by a lid, for example by a foil, is sealed against the secondbrew chamber part 20. Alternatively, or additionally, the side of therim 14B facing towards the cup-shaped body 6B can be sealed against thefirst brew chamber part 18. Thereto an additional seal can be providedon the first brew chamber part 18, e.g. on the second abutment surface28, and/or on the capsule 4B, e.g. on the rim 14B or on the cup-shapedbody 6B. It will be clear that a seal on the capsule may be additionalto the seal between the first brew chamber part 18 and the second brewchamber part 20. This may reduce the sealing effort by the secondsealing member 122.

When the fluid under pressure is supplied to the capsule 4A, 4B in thebrew chamber, the exit area 13A, 13B may open against the extractionplate 30. The extraction plate 30 in this example includes a pluralityof relief elements 124. Here the relief elements 124 are truncatedpyramids. A rise in pressure inside the capsule 4A, 4B can cause theexit area 13A, 13B to tear against the relief elements allowing beverageto exit the capsule 4A, 4B.

The beverage can pass through the extraction plate 30 via apertures inthe extraction plate. Next the beverage can flow to an outlet 126. Fromthe outlet 126 the beverage can flow into a receptacle, such as a cup.

Once the beverage has been brewed, the lever 58 can be moved upwardly.This causes the arresting ring 80 to be moved away from the retainer110. Next, the first brew chamber part 18 will be moved rearwardly. Thesecond inclined surface 116 of the retainer 110 can allow the retainerto pass the projection 108. The first brew chamber 18 part will moveaway from the second brew chamber part 20. The central portion 32 willreturn to the ready position. The bosses 50, 52 and grooves 54, 56determine the path that will be followed by the first brew chamber part18. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B the first brew chamber part will swiveldownwardly. This promotes ejection of the used capsule 4A, 4B from thecavity 24 under the effect of gravity. The ejector 38 can assist inpushing the capsule 4A, 4B off the piercing member 44 and out of thecavity 24. The used capsule 4A, 4B can fall into a waste basket of theapparatus 2.

In this example the first and second capsules 4A, 4B are designed tomake a similar visual impression. FIG. 8A shows an example of a firstcapsule 4A inserted in the brew chamber 22A formed by the first brewchamber part 18 and the second brew chamber part 20. It will beappreciated that the circumferential wall 10A is narrower than thecavity 24 at that location. As a result there is a first volume 126surrounding the first capsule 4A inside the cavity 24. FIG. 8B shows anexample of a second capsule 4B inserted in the brew chamber 22B formedby the first brew chamber part 18 and the second brew chamber part 20.It will be appreciated that a part 128 of the circumferential wall 10Bis narrower than the cavity 24 at that location. This part 128 is formedby the part of the circumferential wall 10B extending beyond the firstabutment surface 26. As a result there is a second volume 130surrounding the second capsule 4B inside the cavity 24.

It is noted that the first volume 126 is not occupied by the firstcapsule 4A when the brew chamber holds the first capsule 4A. However,this first volume 126 is occupied by part of the second capsule 4B whenthe brew chamber holds the second capsule 4B. The second volume 130 isnot occupied by the second capsule 4B when the brew chamber holds thesecond capsule 4B. This second volume 130 receiving the central portion32 of the extraction plate 30 when the brew chamber holds the firstcapsule 4A.

When brewing a beverage using the first capsule 4A, the first volume 126will fill with fluid, such as water, which fluid is not used for brewingthe beverage. This fluid can be drained to the waste basket afterbrewing. When brewing a beverage using the second capsule 4B, the secondvolume 130 will fill with fluid, such as water, which fluid is not usedfor brewing the beverage. This fluid can be drained to a container, e.g.the waste basket, after brewing. In this example the first volume 126 issubstantially equal to the second volume 130. Hence, the volume of fluiddirected to the waste basket is substantially equal when brewing abeverage using a first capsule 4A and when brewing a beverage using asecond capsule 4B.

Herein, the invention is described with reference to specific examplesof embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident thatvarious modifications and changes may be made therein, without departingfrom the essence of the invention. For the purpose of clarity and aconcise description features are described herein as part of the same orseparate embodiments, however, alternative embodiments havingcombinations of all or some of the features described in these separateembodiments are also envisaged.

In the examples, the central portion of the extraction plate includes aplurality of relief elements. The peripheral portion includes no reliefelements. However, it will be appreciated that the peripheral portionmay also include relief elements. The extraction plate and the secondexit area can be adapted to each other such that a flow resistance ofthe second exit area when opened is less than a flow resistance of thefirst exit area when opened. The extraction plate and the second exitarea may be adapted to each other such that the second exit area tearson the extraction plate over a larger surface area than the first exitarea. The extraction plate and the second exit area may be adapted toeach other such that the second exit area tears on the extraction plateon more locations than the first exit area. Outer relief elements may bedesigned for tearing both the first and second exit area wherein thesecond exit area tears on the outer relief elements over a largersurface area than the first exit area. The extraction plate can includerelief elements of a first type and at least one relief element of asecond type, wherein the relief elements of the first type are arrangedwithin an area corresponding to the first exit area, and the at leastone relief element of the second type being arranged within an areacorresponding to the second exit area and outside the area correspondingto the first exit area. The relief element of the second type may have asharper edge than the relief elements of the first type. The second exitarea may include a weakened zone. The weakened zone may be located in aperipheral area of the second exit area.

In the examples, the first and second capsules have substantially thesame shape. It is also possible to provide a third capsule having adifferent shape. The third capsule can e.g. be shaped to substantiallyfill the brew chamber when the central portion is in the firstextraction position. It is also possible to provide a fourth capsulehaving a different shape. The fourth capsule can e.g. be shaped tosubstantially fill the brew chamber when the central portion is in thesecond extraction position.

In the examples, the first capsule has an outwardly extendingflange-like rim. It will be appreciated that it is possible that thefirst capsule does not include an outwardly extending rim. In theexamples, the second capsule has an outwardly extending flange-like rim.It will be appreciated that it is possible that the second capsule doesnot include an outwardly extending rim.

In the examples, the capsule body and lid are made of aluminium foil,preferable polymer coated aluminium foil to allow easy welding of thelid to the body. It will be appreciated that the capsule body and/or lidcan be made of a wide variety of materials considered suitable by theskilled person and capable of being processed into a sheet, film or foilusing techniques conventionally known in the art such as extrusion,co-extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, vacuum forming, etc.Suitable materials for the capsule body and/or lid include, withoutbeing limited thereto, plastic materials, in particular thermoplasticmaterials, for example a polyolefin polymer, for example polyethylene orpolypropylene, PVC, polyesters for example polyethylene terephthalate(PET); metal foils such as aluminum, stainless steel, metal alloys etc.;or sheets of a woven or a non-woven or otherwise processed fibrousmaterial, like paper, polyester, etc.; or combinations thereof, e.g.multilayers. The material for the capsule can be a biodegradable polymeror another biodegradable material. The skilled person will be capable ofselecting the appropriate material taking into account the envisaged usewith food material and any other relevant circumstances during use ofthe capsule. The thickness of the sheet or foil may be chosen such thata form stable capsule is provided. The thickness of the sheet or foilmay vary with the nature of the material.

In the examples, the capsules are closed capsules. It is also possibleto provide the system with an open capsule. The open capsule is openprior to insertion into the apparatus. The open capsule can bepre-perforated. The open capsule can be packaged in a hermeticallysealed package, which has to be removed before inserting the opencapsule in the apparatus. In the examples, the capsules are pierced bythe piercing means. It is also possible to provide the system with acapsule that is not pierced by the piercing means. Such capsule can e.g.include an entrance filter. In the examples, the capsules open againstthe extraction plate. It is also possible to provide the system with acapsule that does not open against the extraction plate. Such capsulecan e.g. include an exit filter.

In the examples, the capsules themselves do not include a sealingmember. It will be appreciated that it is possible to provide thecapsule with a sealing member, e.g. a resilient sealing member. Thesealing member can e.g. be placed on the rim, e.g. on the side facingtowards the cup-shaped body or on the side facing away from thecup-shaped body. Alternatively, or additionally, a sealing member can beprovided on the circumferential wall and/or on the bottom.

In the examples the arresting ring and retainer extend alongsubstantially the entire perimeter of the first and second brew chamberparts. This provides particular good locking of the two brew chamberparts onto each other. However, it will be appreciated that it is alsopossible that the arresting ring and retainer include arresting meansand retaining means at one or more discrete positions along theperimeter, e.g. at two, three, four, six or eight positions.

It will be appreciated that it is also possible to provide a firstapparatus arranged for brewing a beverage using a first capsule, butincapable of brewing a beverage using a second capsule. Such firstapparatus can be included in a system with the apparatus as described inrelation to the figures and a first capsule and optionally a secondcapsule.

It will be appreciated that it is also possible to provide a secondapparatus arranged for brewing a beverage using a second capsule, butincapable of brewing a beverage using a first capsule. Such secondapparatus can be included in a system with the apparatus as described inrelation to the figures and a second capsule and optionally a firstcapsule.

However, other modifications, variations, and alternatives are alsopossible. The specifications, drawings and examples are, accordingly, tobe regarded in an illustrative sense rather than in a restrictive sense.

For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features aredescribed herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however,it will be appreciated that the scope of the invention may includeembodiments having combinations of all or some of the featuresdescribed.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall notbe construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does notexclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in aclaim. Furthermore, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ shall not be construed aslimited to ‘only one’, but instead are used to mean ‘at least one’, anddo not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures arerecited in mutually different claims does not indicate that acombination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage.

1. A system for preparing a quantity of beverage suitable forconsumption, the system comprising: an apparatus including a first brewchamber part and a second brew chamber part forming a brew chamber forselectively holding one of a first exchangeable capsule and a secondexchangeable capsule, the second exchangeable capsule having a largerdiameter than the first exchangeable capsule, and a fluid dispensingdevice for supplying an amount of fluid under pressure to the first brewchamber part, the first brew chamber part having a cavity forselectively holding one of the first and second exchangeable capsules,the system further including the second exchangeable capsule, whereinthe second brew chamber part includes a central portion and a peripheralportion, the central portion being movable into a first position forforming the brew chamber for holding the first exchangeable capsule anda second position forming the brew chamber for holding the secondexchangeable capsule, wherein the central portion includes a firstsealing member arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement betweenthe central portion and the peripheral portion when forming the brewchamber for holding the second exchangeable capsule; and wherein theperipheral portion includes a second sealing member arranged forproviding a fluid sealing engagement between the peripheral portion andthe first brew chamber part when forming the brew chamber for holdingthe second exchangeable capsule.
 2. The system according to claim 1,wherein the first sealing member is arranged for providing a fluidsealing engagement between the central portion and the secondexchangeable capsule when forming the brew chamber for holding thesecond exchangeable capsule.
 3. The system according to claim 1, whereinthe second sealing member is arranged for providing a fluid sealingengagement between the peripheral portion and the second exchangeablecapsule when forming the brew chamber for the second exchangeablecapsule holding the second exchangeable capsule.
 4. The system accordingto claim 1, wherein a side of a rim of the second exchangeable capsulefacing away from a cup-shaped body of the second exchangeable capsule ispressed against the second sealing member by a second abutment surfaceof the first brew chamber part.
 5. The system according to claim 1,wherein the first brew chamber part is provided with a third sealingmember arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement between thefirst brew chamber part and a side of a rim of the second exchangeablecapsule facing towards a cup-shaped body of the second exchangeablecapsule.
 6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first sealingmember is arranged to provide a fluid sealing engagement between thecentral portion and the first brew chamber part when forming the brewchamber for the first exchangeable capsule.
 7. The system according toclaim 6, wherein the first sealing member is arranged to provide aself-reinforcing fluid sealing engagement between the central portionand the first brew chamber part under the effect of fluid pressure inthe brew chamber when forming the brew chamber for the firstexchangeable capsule.
 8. The system according to claim 1, wherein thefirst sealing member includes a resilient lip arranged to provide aself-reinforcing sealing engagement between the central portion and thefirst brew chamber part under the effect of fluid pressure in the brewchamber when forming the brew chamber for the first exchangeablecapsule.
 9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first sealingmember is arranged to provide a self-reinforcing sealing engagementbetween the central portion and the peripheral portion when forming thebrew chamber for holding the second exchangeable capsule.
 10. The systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the second sealing member is arranged toprovide a self-reinforcing fluid sealing engagement between theperipheral portion and the first brew chamber part under the effect offluid pressure in the brew chamber when forming the brew chamber for thesecond exchangeable capsule.
 11. The system according to claim 1,wherein the second sealing member includes a resilient lip arranged toprovide a self-reinforcing sealing engagement between the peripheralportion and the first brew chamber part under the effect of fluidpressure in the brew chamber.
 12. The system according to claim 1,wherein the second exchangeable capsule is provided with a sealingmember.
 13. The system according to claim 1, wherein a rim of the secondexchangeable capsule is provided with a sealing member.
 14. The systemaccording to claim 1, wherein a side of a rim of the second exchangeablecapsule facing away from a cup-shaped body of the second exchangeablecapsule is provided with a sealing member.
 15. The system according toclaim 1, wherein a side of a rim of the second exchangeable capsulefacing towards a cup-shaped body of the second exchangeable capsule isprovided with a sealing member.
 16. The system according to claim 1,including the first exchangeable capsule.
 17. The system according toclaim 1, wherein the first sealing member is arranged for providing afluid sealing engagement between the central portion and the firstbrewing chamber part when forming the brew chamber for holding the firstexchangeable capsule.
 18. The system according to claim 1, wherein thefirst sealing member is arranged for providing a fluid sealingengagement between the central portion and the first exchangeablecapsule when forming the brew chamber for holding the first exchangeablecapsule.
 19. The system according to claim 1, wherein a side of a rim ofthe first exchangeable capsule facing away from a cup-shaped body of thefirst exchangeable capsule is pressed against the first sealing memberby a first abutment surface of the first brew chamber part.
 20. Thesystem according to claim 1, wherein the first brew chamber part isprovided with a fourth sealing member arranged for providing a fluidsealing engagement between the first brew chamber part and a side of arim of the first exchangeable capsule facing towards a cup-shaped bodyof the first exchangeable capsule.
 21. A system for preparing a quantityof beverage suitable for consumption, the system comprising: anapparatus including a first brew chamber part and a second brew chamberpart forming a brew chamber for selectively holding one of a first andsecond exchangeable capsules, the second exchangeable capsule having alarger diameter than the first exchangeable capsule, and a fluiddispensing device for supplying an amount of fluid, such as water, underpressure to the first brew chamber part, the first brew chamber parthaving a cavity for selectively holding one of the first and secondexchangeable capsules, the system further including the secondexchangeable capsule, wherein the second brew chamber part includes acentral portion and a peripheral portion, the central portion beingmovable into a first position for forming the brew chamber for holdingthe first exchangeable capsule and a second position forming the brewchamber for holding the second exchangeable capsule, wherein the centralportion includes a first sealing member arranged for providing a fluidsealing engagement between the central portion and a portion of thesecond capsule facing the second brew chamber part when the brew chamberholds the second exchangeable capsule; and wherein the peripheralportion includes a second sealing member arranged for providing a fluidsealing engagement between the peripheral portion and the first brewchamber part and/or the peripheral portion and a portion of the secondcapsule facing the second brew chamber part when the brew chamber holdsthe second exchangeable capsule. 22-23. (canceled)